Marina Makri | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Neuroscientists

Dr. Marina Makri | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marina Makri, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.

Marina Makri is a multidisciplinary researcher whose academic and professional journey bridges biology, psychotherapy, and neuroscience. With foundational degrees in biological sciences and advanced training in counseling and clinical psychology, she has crafted a unique research identity focused on neurodegenerative diseases, genetic counseling, and caregiver support. Her contributions to numerous Erasmus+ and Horizon 2020 projects demonstrate her expertise in managing international collaborations, developing innovative educational tools, and promoting genetic literacy. Her dedication extends beyond research, as seen in her extensive volunteer work aimed at supporting caregivers and vulnerable populations through inclusive, science-driven initiatives.

Profile

Orcid

šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Marina Makri’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in biological sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2010, followed by a Masterā€™s degree in Biological Sciences, focusing on Ecological Design and Sustainable Development. Her academic curiosity soon led her into the field of mental health and counseling. Between 2014 and 2017, she pursued a Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychotherapy at the University of East London while simultaneously undertaking multiple advanced training programs in clinical diagnosis, child and adolescent psychopathology, and psychological assessment. This multidimensional academic background laid the groundwork for her current doctoral research at the School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, initiated in 2020.

šŸ§  Professional Endeavors in Neurodegenerative Research

Marinaā€™s career reflects her deep commitment to neurological and cognitive health. Her most impactful contributions have emerged from her involvement in numerous EU-funded projects related to Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegenerative conditions. As a Research Associate and Project Manager for Erasmus+ and Horizon 2020 programs, she has played pivotal roles in initiatives like ā€œEnhancing Genetic Knowledge for Neurodegenerative Disorders through Gamification,ā€ ā€œGenetic Counseling in European Universities,ā€ and the internationally recognized ā€œDominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN).ā€ These roles showcase her interdisciplinary expertise in genetics, cognitive science, and patient education.

šŸ”¬ Contributions and Research Focus

Marina’s research portfolio is extensive and firmly rooted in supporting vulnerable populations through innovation and empathy. Her work spans cognitive rehabilitation, genetic counseling, and game-based learning for adults with disabilities. A unique blend of scientific inquiry and psychological understanding characterizes her contributions, as seen in projects such as Games4CoSkills and E.L.So.M.C.I., which explore educational and cognitive development through gamification. She is also deeply involved in supporting informal caregivers through initiatives like InfoCARE and S.IN.CA.L.A., contributing to both academic literature and real-world health policy enhancements.

šŸŒ Community Impact and Volunteering

Beyond research, Marina has consistently extended her expertise through volunteering. Her engagement with the Greek Carers Network EPIONI and the Greek Association of Alzheimerā€™s Disease and Related Disorders reflects her commitment to accessible education and support for caregivers. Her initiatives often bridge generations and address the needs of underserved groups, such as women with physical disabilities and at-home caregivers, emphasizing equity and social innovation. Through these projects, she has elevated the voices of informal carers and contributed to a more inclusive healthcare model.

šŸ§¬ Accolades and International Collaborations

Marinaā€™s collaborative work has garnered recognition on both national and European platforms. Her role as a Greek Coordinator for the Washington University-led DIAN study signals her integration into prestigious global research networks. Many of the Erasmus+ projects she has managed or contributed to have been distinguished for their innovation in health education, genetic literacy, and caregiver support. These endeavors reflect not only her organizational excellence but also her scientific credibility and capacity for thought leadership in neuroscience and genetics.

šŸ’” Legacy and Future Contributions

Marina Makri is poised to be a leading figure in integrating mental health, neurogenetics, and public education. With a PhD nearing completion and a decade of hands-on project experience, she stands ready to shape future directions in personalized medicine and cognitive care. Her vision aligns with emerging global prioritiesā€”promoting early detection, democratizing genetic knowledge, and developing engaging tools for lifelong learning and mental resilience.

šŸŒŸ Influence and Inspiration

Marinaā€™s multifaceted career has left a meaningful imprint on the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and community health. Her synthesis of biology, psychotherapy, and digital innovation serves as an inspiring model for young researchers seeking to make a societal impact through science. By harmonizing rigorous academic research with compassionate care, she continues to influence both clinical practices and educational frameworksā€”contributing to a future where science and humanity go hand in hand.

publication

Title: Interventions for Caregivers of People with Dementia in Greece
Author: Marina Makri
Year: 2017

 

šŸ Conclusion

Marina Makri exemplifies the modern researcher who not only advances scientific knowledge but also ensures it reaches and benefits the wider community. Her work in genetics, cognitive health, and caregiver education underscores a commitment to interdisciplinary solutions and social impact. As she completes her PhD, her trajectory suggests continued influence in neurocognitive research, public health education, and inclusive policy developmentā€”making her a promising and impactful leader in the field of neuroscience and health psychology.

Huaqian Xu | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Neuroscientists

Mr. Huaqian Xu | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Huaqian Xu,Ā  Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China.

Xu Huaqian is a dedicated and accomplished joint masterā€™s and doctoral student at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, specializing in Power Engineering and Engineering Thermophysics. Under the mentorship of Professor Zeng Kuo and Professor Yang Haiping, he has cultivated a strong academic and research foundation focused on high-temperature thermal energy storage. With over 20 published research papers in leading journals such as Energy, Chemical Engineering Journal, and Journal of Energy Storage, Xu has significantly contributed to advancing knowledge in sustainable thermal systems and energy efficiency. He has received multiple prestigious awards including the First-Class Academic Scholarship, Weichai Power Scholarship, Zhixing Scholarship, and the Outstanding Graduate Award, reflecting both academic excellence and research impact.

Profile

Scopus

šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Xu Huaqian embarked on his academic journey with a keen interest in energy systems and thermal sciences. Demonstrating outstanding aptitude early in his studies, he was admitted into the prestigious joint masterā€™s and doctoral program at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in 2021. This rigorous academic environment, paired with his innate curiosity and analytical mindset, laid a strong foundation for his future contributions in power engineering and engineering thermophysics. Guided by esteemed mentors, Professor Zeng Kuo and Professor Yang Haiping, Xuā€™s early academic years were marked by intellectual growth, precision in scientific inquiry, and a deepening commitment to sustainable energy research.

šŸ”¬ Professional Endeavors

Xu Huaqian’s academic career is complemented by a professional research trajectory that reflects dedication and technical sophistication. His involvement in cutting-edge research within the domain of high-temperature thermal storage has allowed him to bridge theoretical concepts with practical applications. His work contributes to the development of efficient and robust thermal systems crucial for next-generation energy infrastructure. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, he has actively participated in high-impact research projects that align with global efforts to address energy security and climate resilience.

šŸ§Ŗ Contributions and Research Focus

Specializing in Power Engineering and Engineering Thermophysics, Xu has focused his research on the challenging yet pivotal area of high-temperature thermal energy storage. His investigations delve into material behavior, system optimization, and thermodynamic performance of storage systems under extreme thermal conditions. Xu’s work not only contributes to the enhancement of renewable energy utilization but also supports the integration of solar thermal and industrial waste heat recovery technologies. With over 20 published research articles in reputed journals like Energy, Chemical Engineering Journal, Journal of Energy Storage, and Journal of the Energy Institute, he has consistently added valuable insights to the academic and industrial discourse on energy efficiency.

šŸ† Accolades and Recognition

Xu Huaqianā€™s scholarly excellence has been widely recognized through numerous prestigious awards. He was honored with the First-Class Academic Scholarship by Huazhong University of Science and Technology, reflecting his top-tier academic standing. In 2023, he received the Weichai Power Scholarship, which acknowledges innovative contributions to the field of energy engineering. Additionally, accolades such as the Zhixing Scholarship and the Outstanding Graduate Award highlight his consistent commitment to excellence and research impact throughout his graduate education.

šŸŒ Impact and Influence

Through his prolific publishing record and focus on critical energy challenges, Xu has begun to establish a strong presence in the international research community. His studies have the potential to reshape how industries and energy providers view thermal energy storage, especially in the context of decarbonization and grid flexibility. Xuā€™s influence extends beyond the academic realm, touching on environmental sustainability and policy implications. His work encourages cross-sector collaboration, enabling innovations that can power industries more cleanly and efficiently.

šŸ§  Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Xu Huaqian is poised to be a thought leader in sustainable thermal technologies. As the global demand for reliable and eco-friendly energy solutions intensifies, his research is expected to play a central role in developing scalable, high-performance energy storage systems. He is likely to contribute not only through future publications and patents but also by mentoring the next generation of energy scientists and engineers. His academic legacy will be marked by a steadfast dedication to science-driven innovation and societal advancement.

āš” Advancing the Frontiers of Thermal Energy Science

At the intersection of engineering thermophysics and sustainable development, Xu Huaqianā€™s work exemplifies the potential of scientific research to solve pressing global problems. Whether through enhancing the efficiency of renewable energy storage systems or developing materials capable of withstanding high thermal loads, his work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the energy domain. With an unwavering focus on innovation and societal impact, Xu represents a new wave of researchers committed to building a smarter, cleaner energy future.

Publication

  • Title: Investigation of metal foam enhancement under multilayer interaction for large-scale latent heat storage

  • Authors: Zheyu Fang, Kuo Zeng, Huaqian Xu, Haiping Yang, Hanping Chen

  • Year: 2025

  • Journal: Energy

 

šŸ“ Conclusion

Xu Huaqian emerges as a promising figure in the field of energy research, particularly in the area of high-temperature thermal storage technologies. His blend of scientific rigor, innovative thinking, and strong academic mentorship positions him to make enduring contributions to the energy sector. Through his research, Xu not only addresses technical challenges in thermal engineering but also aligns with global sustainability goals. His achievements and ongoing work indicate a future filled with impactful discoveries and leadership in the advancement of clean and efficient energy systems.

DaŔa Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Neuroscientists

Assoc. Prof. Dr. DaŔa Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. DaŔa Zupančič, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.

DaŔa Zupančič is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in cell biology, urothelial pathology, and medical education. Her extensive contributions to scientific research, particularly in the field of urothelial repair and cancer transformation, have earned her recognition, including the EMBO award. She has played a crucial role in mentoring and teaching, guiding future generations of researchers and medical professionals.

Profile

Orcid

āœØ Early Academic Pursuits āœØ

DaÅ”a Zupančič embarked on her academic journey with an unwavering passion for cell biology and medicine. She earned her Masterā€™s degree in 2002 from the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, where she meticulously explored cellular and molecular biological changes in the rat bladder urothelium following cyclophosphamide exposure. This formative research laid the foundation for her Ph.D., which she successfully completed in 2006, investigating the protective role of melatonin in urothelial injury and repair. Her dedication to advancing biomedical knowledge was evident from the very beginning of her scholarly career.

šŸŽ“ Professional Endeavors šŸŽ“

Since 2006, DaŔa Zupančič has been an esteemed Associate Professor at the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Cell Biology. Prior to this, she gained valuable experience as a Young Researcher and Teaching Assistant from 1999 to 2006. Her extensive expertise and commitment to education have made her an integral part of the institution, where she continuously fosters scientific curiosity and excellence among students and colleagues alike.

šŸŽ” Contributions and Research Focus šŸŽ”

Throughout her career, DaÅ”a Zupančič has dedicated her research to understanding cellular mechanisms in urothelial biology and pathology. Her investigations into cyclophosphamide-induced urothelial injury, melatoninā€™s protective effects, and retinoid signaling pathways in urothelial cancer transformation have provided valuable insights into cellular repair processes. Her work extends beyond laboratory research, influencing the medical communityā€™s approach to urothelial diseases and potential therapeutic advancements.

šŸ† Accolades and Recognition šŸ†

Her exceptional contributions to biomedical research have been recognized on multiple platforms. In 2017, she was honored with the prestigious EMBO award for her short-term scholarship project on the role of the retinoid signaling pathway in urothelial cancer transformation. This recognition underscores her significant impact on the scientific community and highlights her pioneering approach to understanding cancer pathophysiology.

šŸ‘Øā€šŸŽ“ Impact and Influence šŸ‘Øā€šŸŽ“

A dedicated mentor, DaÅ”a Zupančič has guided numerous students towards academic excellence. Between 2014 and 2025, she has successfully mentored four masterā€™s students and is currently supervising two more. In addition, she has overseen the research endeavors of four Ph.D. candidates, with one having successfully defended their dissertation in 2023 and another expected to graduate in 2025. Her mentorship has shaped the next generation of biomedical researchers, fostering a culture of rigorous inquiry and scientific discovery.

šŸ“š Legacy and Future Contributions šŸ“š

Beyond her research, DaŔa Zupančič plays a pivotal role in academia through her extensive teaching engagements. Since 2000, she has been a cornerstone of education at the University of Ljubljana, contributing to multiple faculties, including Medicine, Biotechnical Sciences, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy. She teaches a range of graduate and doctoral courses, covering essential subjects such as Medical Cell Biology, Immunology, and Research in Medicine. Her dedication to education ensures that her knowledge and expertise continue to shape the minds of aspiring medical professionals and researchers for years to come.

Publication

  • Vitamin Aā€Enriched Diet Increases Urothelial Cell Proliferation by Upregulating Itga3 and Areg After Cyclophosphamideā€Induced Injury in Mice
    Authors: Brina Dragar, Simona Kranjc Brezar, Maja Čemažar, Tanja Jesenko, Rok Romih, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Tadeja Kuret, DaÅ”a Zupančič
    Year: 2025

 

  • Selective Targeting of Lectins and Their Macropinocytosis in Urothelial Tumours: Translation from in vitro to ex vivo
    Authors: NataŔa Resnik, Tanja ViŔnjar, Tomaž Smrkolj, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Rok Romih, DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2023

 

  • Nanodiamonds as Possible Tools for Improved Management of Bladder Cancer and Bacterial Cystitis
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič, Peter Veranič
    Year: 2022

 

  • Transmission Electron Microscopy Demonstration of Reduced Endothelial Glycocalyx in Severe Preeclampsia
    Authors: Mugerli S, Zupančič D, Rok Romih, Lučovnik M
    Year: 2022

 

  • Vitamin A and Retinoids in Bladder Cancer Chemoprevention and Treatment: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence, Challenges and Future Prospects
    Authors: Larisa Tratnjek, Jera Jeruc, Rok Romih, DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2021

 

  • Immunohistochemistry as a Paramount Tool in Research of Normal Urothelium, Bladder Cancer and Bladder Pain Syndrome
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič, Rok Romih
    Year: 2021

 

  • Combined Lectin- and Immuno-Histochemistry (CLIH) for Applications in Cell Biology and Cancer Diagnosis: Analysis of Human Urothelial Carcinomas
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2020

 

  • Vitamin A Rich Diet Diminishes Early Urothelial Carcinogenesis by Altering Retinoic Acid Signaling
    Authors: DaÅ”a Zupančič, Jelena Korać-Prlić, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Lucija Franković, Katarina Vilović, Jera Jeruc, Rok Romih, JanoÅ” Terzić
    Year: 2020

 

  • Lectins as Possible Tools for Improved Urinary Bladder Cancer Management
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2019

 

  • Co-Culturing Porcine Normal Urothelial Cells, Urinary Bladder Fibroblasts and Smooth Muscle Cells for Tissue Engineering Research
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2018

 

šŸŒŸ Conclusion šŸŒŸ

With a career dedicated to pioneering research, impactful mentorship, and transformative education, DaŔa Zupančič continues to leave a lasting legacy in the scientific and academic communities. Her work not only enhances understanding of urothelial biology but also inspires innovation and discovery among young scientists. As she continues her academic and research endeavors, her influence on the field will undoubtedly grow, shaping the future of biomedical sciences.